LIVE NATION PRESENTS: VV
LIVE AT HARD ROCK LIVE IN WHEATLAND, CA ON 10/19/23
I’ve enjoyed several songs throughout the years that came from the Finnish band HIM. I never had the opportunity to see the band live before they disbanded in 2017. It’s now six years later and former HIM vocalist Ville Valo has a solo career under the name VV and is performing at Hard Rock Live on a co-headlining tour with Black Veil Brides.
As VV were to hit the stage, the lights dimmed down and the crowd erupted into cheers. The only thing visible was a glowing “VV” logo backdrop. This logo changed into a modern version of the HIM “heartagram” logo which brought the cheers to a whole new level. From the moment Valo stepped onto the stage, there was an undeniable energy in the air, instantly transporting everyone into a world of raw emotion and captivating melodies.
Valo and his bandmates unleashed a surge of raw energy, blending seamlessly with Valo’s hauntingly soulful vocals. The setlist was a well-crafted mix of his solo work and beloved HIM classics, showcasing his versatility as a performer. The band’s musicianship was top-notch, and Valo’s distinct voice sounded as hauntingly beautiful as ever.
Some of my favorite songs like “Join Me in Death” and “Wings of a Butterfly” took on new life, reimagined with a fresh energy that had the audience singing along in unison. One of the standout moments of the night was Valo’s heartfelt interaction with the crowd. Between songs, he shared personal anecdotes and expressed genuine gratitude for the unwavering support of his fans. Valo even stopped the show during “Run Away from the Sun” in order to make sure a fan who was passing out was okay.
One of the evening’s final standout moments was when Ville Valo performed “Buried Alive by Love”. Valo’s performance at Hard Rock Live was not just a concert, but truly a memorable experience. His haunting, melancholy vocals throughout tonight were worth the wait to see him perform live.
VILLE VALO Photo Gallery Click HERE
Ville Valo Setlist
Echolocate Your Love
The Funeral of Hearts (HIM song)
The Foreverlost
Join Me in Death (HIM song)
Neon Noir
The Kiss of Dawn (HIM song)
Loveletting
Right Here in My Arms (HIM song)
Heartful of Ghosts
Rip Out the Wings of a Butterfly (HIM song)
Run Away From the Sun
Buried Alive by Love (HIM song)
Saturnine Saturnalia